As a coach on the hot seat, it's not surprising that Rex Ryan is taking more control of his defense.

Ryan told the New York Daily News that he plans to handle the defensive play calling during games next season. Former defensive coordinator Mike Pettine called the plays last season, but Ryan will assume that role, with input from new defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman.

Rex Ryan is going to take a more hands-on approach with his New York Jets defense next season. (AP Photo)

“Dennis and I worked side-by-side literally for years now,” Ryan told the Daily News. “It’s something that we talked about and we want to do. I want Dennis to just be totally involved like he always is, but I’ll make the calls (and have) the final say on the calls. But again the process will be very similar.”

What can’t be similar, for Ryan’s sake, is another dismal season from the Jets. If that happens, it would increase the chances that owner Woody Johnson makes the call for a different head coach.

Ryan says the Jets’ defense will be one of the best of the league. That is debatable, especially if the team trades Darrelle Revis, which it seems determined to do. The Jets finished in the top five in total defense in Ryan’s first three years before falling to eighth last season.

“One thing I know for sure about this football team—since I’ve been here and as long as I’ll ever be here—is we will be one of the premier defenses in the league,” Ryan said. “The Jet way is playing great defense.”